Willows residents get fighting fit

Darcy Ellis (front) with the residents from The Willows. (Damjan Janevski) 388836_04

A new boxing program has been launched for residents of the Melton Willows assisted residential service in a collaboration between Smart Body Australia and HitFit boxing gym.

About 10 residents at the Willows visited HitFit boxing gym in Melton for a special clinic to launch the new program on February 15.

The day included boxing training with Team Ellis’ professional boxers, a talk from HitFit chief executive and boxer Darcy Ellis, and a Facetime Q&A with Australian boxing legend Jeff Fenech.

Mr Ellis said the first session was a positive experience.

“It’s great to see people from all walks of life fighting to be the best version of themselves despite what obstacles life has thrown their way,” he said.

Willows resident and boxing fanatic Matthew Forti also gave the training session and clinic a glowing review.

“It was a privilege to meet Darcy and speak to Jeff again. I and the group feel honoured and privileged to train here,” he said.

The session is the latest in a series of events Smart Body Australia has been running with Melton Willows residents focused on mental health through physical fitness.

Smart Body chief executive Barry O’Keefe was also happy with the latest event.

“[Everyone] thoroughly enjoyed the experience especially when Jeff Fenech Facetimed in from Bangkok,” he said.

The group intend to run weekly sessions with the Willows residents, and have them be a part of other HitFit activities including a special event that will coincide with the launch of a new HitFit Gym opening in Hoppers Crossing on March 17.